Maple Cedar Plank Salmon

Maple Cedar Plank Salmon is a delightful dish that beautifully marries the sweet richness of maple syrup with the aromatic nuances of cedar wood. This cooking technique, which involves grilling salmon on a cedar plank, infuses the fish with a unique smokiness and flavor. It's a method that harkens back to the indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest, who utilized abundant natural resources like cedar for cooking. The result is a salmon that is not only delicious but also steeped in cultural history.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillet (2 pounds, skin-on for best results)
• Maple syrup (1/2 cup)
• Soy sauce (1/4 cup)
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
• Lemon (zest and juice, 1 whole)
• Ginger (1 tablespoon, freshly grated)
• Ground black pepper (to taste)
• Salt (to taste)
• Cedar plank (for grilling, pre-soaked in water for at least 2 hours)
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon)

Preparation

1. Soak the cedar plank

   Begin by thoroughly soaking the cedar plank in water for at least 2 hours. This ensures the plank doesn't catch fire on the grill and allows it to release ample steam, infusing the salmon with flavor.

2. Prepare the marinade

   In a small bowl, combine the maple syrup, soy sauce, minced garlic, lemon zest and juice, and grated ginger. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Whisk everything together until well blended.

3. Marinate the salmon fillet

   Place the salmon fillet in a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the salmon, ensuring it's evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld with the fish.

Cooking Process

1. Preheat the grill

   Prepare your grill for medium-high heat. If you're using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals for direct heat grilling. For gas grills, preheat to about 400°F. Position the soaked cedar plank on the grill grates and allow it to preheat for around 5 minutes.

2. Prepare the salmon for grilling

   Remove the salmon fillet from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels, removing excess marinade. Drizzle lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.

3. Grill the salmon

   Place the salmon, skin-side down, directly onto the preheated cedar plank. Close the grill lid and let the salmon cook for approximately 20-25 minutes. Insert a thermometer through the thickest part of the salmon; it should read 145°F. Ensure you have a cooking timer set to help track the grilling time.

Serving Suggestions

Maple Cedar Plank Salmon pairs beautifully with a vibrant green salad, perhaps featuring bitter greens such as arugula or kale. A simple side of roasted asparagus or grilled vegetables also complements the dish well. Consider serving with a chilled white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay, which can enhance both the sweet and smoky flavors of the salmon.

How to Enjoy

Savor this dish as the main attraction of your meal, drawing guests in with its inviting aroma and gorgeous presentation. As you dine, remember the long-standing traditions involved in this recipe's development, making each bite a celebration of history and flavor.